Breakthrough discovery: Gut bacterium Coprococcus directly increases muscle strength

Scientists have identified a bacterium from the Coprococcus genus in the human gastrointestinal tract that directly influences increased muscle strength through the production of specific metabolites. The discovery, reported on March 11 and 12, 2026, by leading Spanish and Portuguese media, sheds new light on the functioning of the so-called gut-muscle axis. Researchers indicate that a key element of this process is the microbes' production of short-chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate. This substance enters the bloodstream and actively supports the metabolism and regeneration of muscle tissue, translating into measurable performance benefits. Research on the impact of the microbiome on physical fitness gained significance in the last decade when scientists began to notice a correlation between the composition of the bacterial flora and the results achieved by marathon runners and cyclists. Previous analyses suggested that some bacteria could process lactic acid into propionate, improving runners' endurance. The current discovery concerning the Coprococcus genus pushes the boundaries of knowledge towards the direct generation of muscle strength, not just delaying fatigue.

Publications in the newspapers EL PAÍS and El Confidencial pose a provocative question about the future of sports medicine and the possibility of utilizing the microbiota of elite athletes. As a central example, Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogačar is cited, whose extraordinary endurance becomes a starting point for considerations about bacterial flora transplants. Experts analyze whether transferring microorganisms from individuals with unique physical predispositions could significantly improve parameters in amateurs or patients suffering from muscle atrophy. Although this concept currently remains in the realm of advanced scientific hypotheses, the identification of specific bacterial strains responsible for muscle strength brings science closer to developing targeted next-generation probiotics.

The identified bacterium belongs to a group of spore-forming microorganisms, which facilitates its potential application in supplementation. Studies confirm that the presence of Coprococcus in the gastrointestinal tract correlates with better results in fitness tests, making it a significant biomarker of physical condition. The Portuguese portal SAPO emphasizes that this discovery may be significant not only for competitive sports but also for geriatrics in the fight against age-related physical decline. Scientists now plan further clinical trials to determine optimal conditions for the colonization of the intestines by these beneficial microorganisms and to study their interactions with a fiber-rich diet.

Achievements of Tadej Pogačar cited in research context: 1. Tour de France (Victories in 2020, 2021, 2024, 2025); 2. Giro d'Italia (Victory in 2024); 3. World Championships (World title 2024)